The hoisting took place in the presence of President Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Gail Teixeira and members of the Joint Services among others.

The formal flag raising ceremony for the observance of Guyana's 34th Republic Anniversary was held at Parliament Buildings.

Guyana achieved Republican status from Great Britain on February 23, 1970.

President Jagdeo who arrived shortly after 07:00 hrs took the Presidential Salute. He was led by Major Dindyal William to inspect the Guard of Honour, which comprised more than 100 members from the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force.

Representatives of the three major religions in Guyana then offered prayers for the nation and its rulers.

The hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead began at 07:36 and continued amidst the sounding of the ceremonial 21 gunshots. Four minutes later it flew tall in the centre of six flags: the Joint Services, the Guyana Fire Service, the Guyana Police Force on one side and the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Prison Service and the City Council on the other side.

The National Pledge was then recited, followed by the singing of the Song of the Republic and the National Anthem.

President Jagdeo then returned to the dais where he took the Presidential Salute before departing.

Sharing thoughts on Guyana's 34th Republic Anniversary Minister Texiera said that the country is a young nation and Guyanese should look forward with hope, as "we have overcome many problems, including the reduction of poverty.'

She urged that Guyanese love each other and themselves, as "we are a beautiful people with a beautiful culture."

Lieutenant Colonel Christine King of the Guyana Defence Force said Guyanese have a lot to do to improve the image of the country, even though much has been done. She urged that this should be the goal on everyone's mind as they celebrate the 34th anniversary, so that the 35th anniversary can be bigger and better.

The new Commissioner of Police Winston Felix noted that it is indeed a grand occasion for celebration and the country has come a far way since gaining Republican status.

Like a true policeman, he noted that the Guyana Police Force is working to ensure that everyone has a safe Mashramani.

The ceremony was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Guyana Police Force Band entertained the gathering with a musical interlude prior to the Guard of Honour March.

Present at the official ceremony were Members of the Cabinet, the Diplomatic Corps and Joint Service among others. Members of the public also gathered to witness the raising of the flag.

Meanwhile, Flag-raising ceremonies were held last night in the other Administrative Regions to celebrate Guyana's 34th Anniversary. Ministers of the Government and other officials took the salute at the ceremonies held in the Regions. Several Regions had cultural activities prior to the raising of the flag at midnight.